Gadgets, lab surprises, odd bets, and future-shocks from this slice of the calendar.
The Sounds of
Popular recordings and roots/country selections associated with the year
HEADLINES ON September 8, 2013
Full News Archive
- Headline: Stoli's Controversial Stand Against Antigay Law. Impact: The Stoli vodka debate triggered a global conversation about consumer ethics, leading to an unexpected increase in craft vodka production in the United States. Who knew a boycott could lead to a boom in artisanal distilleries? Cheers!. Fact: Did you know that vodka is actually a Russian word meaning 'little water'? So, in a way, every sip could be considered a small act of defiance against oppression. Bottoms up!.
- Headline: Final Countdown in Mayor's Race. Impact: This chaotic mayoral race set off a chain reaction of increasingly bizarre political campaigns nationwide, culminating in a reality TV star becoming president. Thanks, candidates, for paving the way for that glorious circus.. Fact: Did you know that the average American spends more time deciding what to watch on Netflix than they do researching their local candidates? Democracy in action, folks!.
- Headline: Syria's Secret Nerve Gas Stockpile Unveiled. Impact: The nerve gas situation in Syria would later inspire a whole new genre of dystopian fiction, proving once again that truth is stranger than fiction. Meanwhile, the international community collectively decided to just shake its head in disbelief.. Fact: Did you know that nerve gas was initially developed during World War II for potential use by the Nazis? It’s like a really bad sequel that just keeps getting worse..
- Headline: Verizon-F.C.C. Court Fight Takes On Regulating Net. Impact: The battle between Verizon and the FCC over internet regulations set off a decade-long debate about net neutrality, eventually leading to a new generation of internet users who are convinced that buffering is a personal attack against them.. Fact: Did you know that in 2014, the internet was officially declared a public utility? Which means we can now complain about slow internet speeds with the same passion as we do about potholes!.